Chantal Weakens to Tropical Depression, Flood Risks Persist Carolinas

Tropical Storm Chantal made landfall near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, early Sunday morning and was downgraded to a tropical depression as it moved inland through the Carolinas. While wind speeds weakened, heavy rainfall of 2 to 4 inches, with local amounts up to 6 to 10 inches near the storm's center, raised concerns about flash flooding in central and eastern North Carolina and parts of South Carolina. The storm also produced life-threatening surf, rip currents, coastal erosion, and posed a risk of isolated tornadoes across eastern South Carolina and North Carolina. Tropical storm warnings were canceled for portions of the two Carolinas, but hazardous conditions including flooding, travel disruptions, and marine hazards were expected to persist through Monday and into early next week. Forecasters noted the storm's expected northeast turn and continued weakening as it moves inland toward southeastern Virginia and southern Delaware. Authorities urged residents to exercise caution, avoid flooded roads, and be prepared for ongoing impacts from the storm.